Summary
For 23 years, Mission Australia’s Youth Survey has given young people a platform to be heard. In 2024, 17,480 young people aged 15–19 shared that the most important issues in Australia were cost of living, climate change and the environment, violence, safety and crime and mental health. These were followed by discrimination and inequality and housing and homelessness.
Too many young people are doing it tough: one in five reported high psychological distress and felt lonely most or all of the time. Some young people struggled to achieve their education and employment goals because of barriers like motivation, mental health challenges and confidence.
Despite these challenges, most feel in control of their lives and remain optimistic, resilient and engaged, drawing strength from their social connections, aspirations and community involvement. Most young people are studying or working, many are active in their communities, and a majority are satisfied with their studies.
Key Stats
- Top issue facing Australia - Cost of living 56%
- Wellbeing: 22% reported high psychological distress; 47% felt very positive or positive about the future
- Study and work: 61% were satisfied with their studies; 52% were in paid employment
- Social connection: 51% felt proud to be part of their community; 39% had undertaken volunteer work